A Crucial Boost to Britain’s Largest Road Tunnel Project -  On 16 June 2025, Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed an additional £590 million funding boost for the Lower Thames Crossing, part of a broader £1 billion “structures fund” aimed at repairing and strengthening critical infrastructure across England

This investment is earmarked for advancing the stalled Lower Thames Crossing, a strategic 2.6-mile twin-bore tunnel beneath the Thames, which will form part of a new 14-mile roadway connecting Essex and Kent. The overall project cost is estimated at £9.2 billion, with £1.2 billion already allocated for planning.

Why the Project Matters

• Easing congestion: By alleviating traffic jams at the existing Dartford Crossing, the tunnel aims to streamline freight and commuter routes between London’s south‑east and the Midlands/North
• Payment model and cost concerns: While the core works stand at around £9.2 billion, National Highways estimates total costs could rise to £10.2 billion depending on private financing terms
• Environmental and logistic reassurance: Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized that the crossing would significantly enhance the resilience of key freight corridors and support trade

This development marks a significant step in delivering long‑promised enhancements to the UK's transport network, aimed at smoothing freight flows, reducing regional bottlenecks, increasing infrastructure resilience, and supporting economic growth. However, the funding model, escalating costs, and environmental trade‑offs remain closely watched aspects as the project gears up for full-scale delivery. For further information on the project please click here and uk/91. Visit https://nationalhighways.co.uk/ and https://www.gov.uk/. 25/25.